- I don't have a wok.
- Use a large, heavy-bottomed skillet. Get it very hot and don't overcrowd it.
- Which oil?
- High smoke point oils like sunflower, canola, or peanut. Extra virgin olive oil will burn.
Garlic Tofu Stir-Fry
The secret to a wok dish is 'wok hei'—the breath of the wok. High heat caramelizes the tofu and veggies while keeping them crisp. This dish celebrates texture: crispy tofu meets crunchy vegetables in a savory sauce.
Ingredients
10.5
oz
Firm Tofu
3
cloves
Garlic
2
tbsp
Soy Sauce
0.35
oz
Fresh Ginger
1
medium
Onion
5
oz
Red Bell Pepper
5
oz
Zucchini
1
tbsp + 1 tsp
Vegetable Oil
1
tsp
Chili Powder (or flakes)
1
tbsp
Sesame Seeds
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Wok or Large Skillet.
- Tofu Press (or heavy object).
- Cutting Board, Knife.
Allergen Information
Soy
Sesame
Instructions
1
✓
Press tofu in paper towels with a weight for 15 mins. Cube into 1-inch pieces.
Tip: Removing water is crucial; wet tofu steams instead of searing.
2
✓
Heat wok until smoking with a little oil. Fry tofu until golden brown. Remove.
Tip: For extra crispiness, toss tofu in cornstarch before frying.
3
✓
Add more oil if needed. Stir-fry sliced onion, minced garlic, and ginger for 30 seconds.
Tip: Keep moving them to prevent burning.
4
✓
Add sliced pepper and zucchini. Stir-fry on high for 2-3 mins.
Tip: Veggies should remain crisp-tender (al dente).
5
✓
Return tofu to pan. Add soy sauce and chili. Toss to coat.
Tip: Soy sauce caramelizes quickly in a hot wok.
6
✓
Serve topped with sesame seeds. Great with steamed rice.
Tip: Sesame adds a nutty finish.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 10.5 oz Firm Tofu
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 0.35 oz Fresh Ginger
- 1 medium Onion
- 5 oz Red Bell Pepper
- 5 oz Zucchini
- 1 tbsp + 1 tsp Vegetable Oil
- 1 tsp Chili Powder (or flakes)
- 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds